Abstract: A dynamic transaction network having multiple management stations, one or more terminals, and one or more databases is disclosed. The dynamic transaction network is capable of adding and removing network hosts (terminals, databases, and management stations) in real-time while continuing to service transaction requests. In addition, the dynamic transaction network is capable of transferring database fragments from a source database to a target database in real-time. In response to a transaction request from a caller, the terminal accesses information stored in a corresponding database via dynamic transportable logic. The dynamic transportable logic derives the location of relevant information in the database from input characteristic(s) of the transaction request.

Abstract: A method and system for managing a large network of switching end-points to route calls by time of day and day of week over a packet switched network (ATM or Voice over IP). The preferred management mechanisms determine circuit and location availability and include means for removal and replacement of circuits from network-wide service, even in a private, packet-switched network. In an automatic call distribution environment, the method is an economical and efficient process for facilitating a caller's ability to access users in workgroups wherein the users utilize either wired or wireless communications tools. Users are chosen via a rule-based selection process including access to a database of users, caller-screened information, and circuit and location availability.

Abstract: In general, a call rating and debiting system provides a way of rating and debiting complex debit card calls. The system estimates the time when a subscriber's balance will expire by using total charges for all calls for a given time period. Estimation is performed by accounting for time already paid for, reserving a minimum continuation time for adding a new call, reserving time for all calls up to a latest paid for time, estimating remaining time before a subscriber's balance reaches zero, based upon a remaining balance achieved after the system accounts for time already paid for, reserving a minimum continuation time for adding a new call and reserving time for all calls up to the latest paid for time, and setting a time limit for all calls in accordance with any portion of the aforementioned. An alternative embodiment of the system allows a subscriber's account balance to be automatically increased after the balance decreases past a predefined minimum.

Abstract: A telecommunications database system is provided which permits an intelligent peripheral(IP) platform to have channelized database access to a plurality of databases. The IP platform can locate data in any one of the plurality of databases through a channel map that is derived from configuration data supplied by a default database and data supplied by an incoming call or request to the IP platform. Once the channel map is derived, the IP platform can select a channel to access a local or remote database based on the data supplied by the incoming call or request. This data may be a request for information, service circuit id, DNIS of the incoming call, address entered by a caller, OCN/Redirect of the call, ANI of the call, and/or progress indicators.

Abstract: A dynamic transaction network having a management station, a terminal, and a database. In response to a transaction request from a caller, the terminal accesses information stored in the database via transportable logic. The transportable logic derives the location of relevant information in the database array from input characteristic(s) of the transaction request. The transportable logic stored in the terminal is updated with transportable logic stored in the management station if the terminal determines that there is a difference between its transportable logic and the management station's transportable logic. Some differences may include a change in the number of databases on the network, a change in the number of terminals on the network, or a change in the location of the information stored on the database.

Abstract: A system and method for remote call control, including providing a tandem switch to control independent legs of a telephone conversation. The switch connects an organization's telecommunications system (Centrex or PBX), with cellular or wireless telephones. The switch facilitates a call coverage plan for an organization, and provides the ability to selectively seize and dial a plurality of telephone terminals as needed in a manner based at least in part upon instructions received from a remote or wireless terminal.

Abstract: A system and method for automatic call distribution targeting users in workgroups wherein the users utilize either wired or wireless communications tools. Users are chosen via a rule-based selection process including access to a database of user and caller-screened information. The system is compatible with available and developmental hardware platforms for call centers and mobile workers including SS7/AIN, computer telephony interfaces, direct cellular network connections, PBX and centrex-based systems.

Abstract: A system and method provides a tandem switch and call control/management platform to establish a telephone connection (bridge) between two parties, the telephone connection being initiated by one of the parties. The tandem switch connects a telecommunications system (Centrex or PBX) with cellular or wireless telephones. If either party is disconnected from the tandem switch, the telephone connection between the tandem switch and the remaining party is maintained. The telephone connection is re-established by instructing the tandem switch to reconnect the disconnected party to the maintained party.